The close emotional bond that develops between an infant and a regular…

Concept

In developmental psychology, attachment is an enduring emotional bond between a child and a familiar caregiver. It is expressed through proximity-seeking and the use of the caregiver as a source of security.

The construct concerns the organisation of the child–caregiver relationship; it is distinct from a general family tie, a feeling of trust, or the broader learning process of socialisation.

Application

The stem specifies an infant, a caregiver, and a close emotional bond. Those three cues identify the developmental construct of attachment.

Contrast

• Bonding with relatives is broader than the specific child–caregiver relationship described in developmental psychology.

• Emotional trust is one experience that may occur within a relationship, but it is not the name of the bond as a developmental construct.

• Attachment names the enduring child–caregiver bond that provides proximity, security, and comfort.

• Socialisation is the process by which a child learns norms, roles, language, and behaviour from family and society.

Cross-check

A definition check confirms the match: “close emotional bond” identifies the relationship itself, while “infant and caregiver” identifies the participants.

Result

Therefore, the close emotional bond is attachment between the child and the caregiver.